FROM THE ARCHIVES:Following the Dáils ratification of the Treaty by seven votes on January 7th, 1922 this report sought to gauge opinion throughout the country.
MESSAGES continue to reach us indicating the satisfaction felt in all parts of the country with Dail Eireann’s approval of the Treaty.
There were public rejoicings in many places, and bonfires burned on the mountains of Wicklow and Donegal.
Clones and Strabane made quite a holiday of yesterday. Arches spanned the streets and Sinn Fein flags were flown from many buildings.
The general feeling is that if the pro and anti-ratifiers will sink their differences and work for the common good of the Irish Free State, a new era of prosperity is opening for the country.
Our Carrick-on-Shannon Correspondent says that the news was received there with quiet satisfaction, although there was little outward show. The military and police of the town are expected to leave within a week.
There were no popular rejoicings in Ballinasloe, but the people there are relieved.
Youghal heard the news from the police, where the result of the voting was received by wireless. Rejoicing was restrained, the inhabitants being anxious to know “what next”.
In Birr the news was welcomed, but there was not much outward enthusiasm. During Saturday night the figure of “Erin” on the Manchester Martyrs’ Memorial was draped in black.
People congregated in groups in Nenagh on Saturday night, and when the announcement of the result was issued from the post office general satisfaction was expressed.
A telephone call to our Correspondent in Dungarvan enabled him to spread the news in the town. The inhabitants had gathered in knots discussing the issue, and the feeling generally was that the Treaty would not be ratified. Much relief and satisfaction was expressed at the voting figures. People hope that the opposing parties will work together for the good of the country.
In King’s County (Offaly), particularly among the farmers, it is felt that commerce and industry will receive a great fillip. Farmers have been passing through anxious and uncertain times and hail Dail Eireann’s decision with satisfaction.
Feelings of anxiety in Armagh gave place to those of relief when the result became known.
Dr. Gilmartin, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Tuam, addressing a congregation at Westport, said that no man could get all that he wanted in this world. There were bound to be differences of opinion, but there should be no recrimination and no strife. “What we want is a native Government of the people, by the people, for the people.”
The Rev. Father O’Halloran, speaking in St. Mary’s Church, Nenagh, on Sunday, said that they had got nine-tenths of their grievances removed. The Treaty gave them control of their own country, its army and education, and together they could build up a great nation.
http://url.ie/du1r